Following the ousting of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, U.S. officials say they plan to improve conditions by “commandeering” or taking control of Venezuela’s oil industry to “unleash prosperity.” Both outlets characterize this as the central element of the post-ousting approach described by U.S. authorities. However, many residents in Caracas interviewed or referenced by the reports say the situation on the ground has not noticeably improved. The New York Times and Havana Times both convey skepticism among ordinary Venezuelans that oil-focused policy changes will rapidly translate into better living conditions. While U.S. officials frame the policy as a path to economic recovery, the sources do not report immediate, broad-based benefits for most people in Caracas. The articles therefore present a contrast between official promises and public perceptions, suggesting that any impact from the political transition and the proposed oil-industry actions has not yet become evident for many Venezuelans.